Uncertainty grows for Venezuelan immigrants in the U.S. after TPS expiration

Confusion and concern are growing among Venezuelan immigrants in the United States following the expiration of Temporary Protected Status, or TPS, according to North Texas immigration attorney Pallavi Ahluwalia who spoke with KRLD.

TPS protections for Venezuelans ended in late September, removing safeguards that had allowed many to live and work legally in the U.S. while conditions in Venezuela were considered unsafe. Ahluwalia says that has left many people legally vulnerable, especially those who entered the country, applied for TPS, and are now unsure what comes next.

Recent comments from federal officials suggesting Venezuelans could apply for refugee status have added to the confusion. Refugee status, however, must be applied for from outside the United States, not from within the country, the attorney said.

At the same time, the U.S. government has pointed to what it describes as improving political stability in Venezuela following leadership changes there. Immigration authorities may now view claims of persecution tied to the former Maduro regime as outdated, which could make asylum cases harder to win.

Ahluwalia says asylum applications filed under current conditions are likely to face increased scrutiny and, in many cases, possible denial. While there are no signs of mass deportations, individuals without legal status could still face detention or removal.

Those who previously held TPS — and whose employment authorization has expired — may be especially exposed, since the government already has their information on file, the attorney said.

The advice to Venezuelans right now is to seek legitimate legal guidance and avoid relying on social media for immigration advice. Each case is different, and there is no single solution for everyone, according to the attorney.

Applicants are encouraged to monitor their case status closely with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and consult a qualified immigration attorney before filing or missing any deadlines, as immigration policies continue to change.

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